From the author of

From the author of

Option 4: Multi-Source Preamplifier and Distribution Amplifier

The Niles MultiZone Receiver I mentioned in the preceding section bridges
another type of whole-house solution, the multi-source preamplifier and
distribution amplifier. This two-piece solution offers tremendous
versatilitybut at a price. These are expensive systems, designed for
custom installations.

The first component in this system is the multi-source preamplifier, a
sophisticated switching device that can send a half-dozen or more source signals
to six or more different zones. Connect your CD jukebox, satellite receiver,
AM/FM tuner, and so on, and then feed the signals to whichever zone you
want.

The individual zone signals from the preamplifier are fed into a
distribution amplifier, which is simply an amplifier with enough channels
to feed all the various zones in your house. A 12-channel amplifier can feed six
zones (two speakers per room). You run speaker cables from the distribution
amplifier to the speakers you install in each of your auxiliary rooms.

You control this entire system through the preamplifier, which switches and
sends sources to each zone; it also controls the volume level for each zone. The
distribution amplifier has no controls at all, except for a master on/off
switch.

This type of system gets really fancy when you install custom controllers in
each room of the system. In fact, the controllers are likely to be the biggest
expense in this system; many custom installers program custom interfaces into
touchscreen controllers installed in each room.

A preamp/distribution amp system is the most versatile way to create
whole-house audio, offering these advantages:

Total source control. You determine the source in each
room.

No compromises in power or sound quality. Full power is sent to
the speakers in each zone.

Audio and video. Most systems let you control both audio and video
sources.

These are the disadvantages:

High cost. You can easily spend tens of thousands of dollars on
this type of system.

Complex installation and maintenance. Because you're dealing
with custom controllers, this system is very complex both to set up and
maintain. You probably don't want to tackle this type of project yourself.
This is the type of system that requires the use of a professional installation
firm.

In short, this is a high-end solution reserved for custom installations.